The morning sun peeked through the kitchen window, casting a golden glow on the countertop. Lala, always curious and eager to help, stood on her little stool, eyes sparkling with excitement. Today, Mom had promised to teach her how to make one of their favorite family dishes — a warm, healthy soup made from tofu and peanuts.
“First, we need to soak the peanuts,” Mom explained, pouring the smooth, pale legumes into a bowl of water. Lala leaned in, poking one gently with her finger. “They feel funny!” she giggled. Mom laughed, “Just wait, after cooking, they’ll be soft and full of flavor.”
While the peanuts softened, Lala helped cut the tofu into neat cubes. Her little hands worked carefully under Mom’s watchful eye. The creamy, white tofu felt silky, and Lala thought it looked like tiny clouds ready to float in the soup pot.
Soon, the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of simmering peanuts. Mom added carrots, mushrooms, and a sprinkle of salt. Lala, with a serious expression, stirred the pot slowly, making sure everything mixed well. “Don’t forget the love!” Mom teased, and Lala grinned, pretending to sprinkle invisible magic into the pot.
When it was time to add the tofu, Lala placed each cube gently into the bubbling broth. The steam swirled around her face, warming her cheeks. The sound of the gentle boil was like a cozy kitchen song.
After a few more minutes, Mom tasted the soup and nodded. “Perfect. Healthy and delicious.” She ladled it into two bowls, topping each with fresh coriander leaves. The bright green herbs made the dish look like a painting.
They sat at the table, the first spoonful sending a wave of warmth through Lala’s tummy. The tofu was soft, the peanuts rich and nutty, and the vegetables sweet and tender.
“This is the best soup ever,” Lala declared, holding her spoon like a prize. Mom smiled, knowing the real secret ingredient wasn’t just love — it was the joy of making something together.
And from that day, every time Lala smelled peanuts and tofu, she remembered the warmth of that sunny kitchen morning with Mom.
